Titanium alloys experience severe work hardening during CNC machining, with 0.05-0.15mm thick surface layers and 40-60HV hardness increase, significantly raising cutting resistance and tool damage compared to stainless steel.
What are the main challenges in CNC titanium alloy machining?

Machining Property Comparison

Property
Titanium Alloy
Stainless Steel
Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K)
6.7
16.2
Work Hardening Rate
Very High
Moderate
Chemical Reactivity
High
Moderate
Elastic Modulus (GPa)
110
206
Unit Cutting Force (N/mm²)
1300-1400
1800-2850
Surface Hardening Layer (mm)
0.05-0.15
0.02-0.08

Cutting Force Comparison

Cutting Force Comparison

Machining Challenges Distribution

Machining Challenges Distribution
Titanium’s work hardening results from low thermal conductivity (16% of carbon steel), concentrating 80% of cutting heat at the tool edge. This thermal concentration, combined with high chemical reactivity and low elastic modulus, accelerates tool wear and reduces machining efficiency. The hardened surface layer creates a cycle where each pass encounters increasingly difficult material conditions.

Disclaimer
All experimental data presented in this paper are derived from controlled production environments and standardized test procedures. However, due to differences in equipment models, material batches, and on-site operating conditions, readers are advised to verify and adjust technical parameters according to their specific application scenarios before practical implementation.
The research results and technical insights shared herein are based on the author’s professional experience and experimental observations. The author and the affiliated institution shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages (including but not limited to equipment damage, product quality issues, or production losses) arising from the improper use of the information provided in this paper.

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